The leading women’s college basketball player for the week, as determined by a prominent source, is highlighted below over Week 17 of the season.
**Audi Crooks, Iowa State**
The standout sophomore center showcased exceptional skills, contributing significantly to Iowa State’s triumphs over Central Florida and the 14th-ranked Kansas State. Crooks delivered an impressive average of 32.5 points and 9.0 rebounds across these victories. During her match against Kansas State, she achieved a personal season-high by scoring 36 points, making 14 out of 18 shots. Crooks wrapped up her performance in conference play by maintaining a shooting rate of 75% or higher in consecutive games.
**Runner-Up**
Toby Fournier from Duke also made remarkable contributions on the court. The freshman forward recorded a career-high 28 points in a victorious clash against the then-24th ranked Florida State. This achievement followed her remarkable performance of 19 points and 10 rebounds in a game against their arch-rival, North Carolina. Fournier attained a 54.5% shooting accuracy while playing against the then-8th ranked Tar Heels.
**Honorable Mention**
Special recognition was given to several other rising stars, including Kitty Henderson from Columbia, Makayla Timpson from Florida State, and JuJu Watkins from USC for their commendable performances.
**Keep an Eye on**
Caia Elisaldez, a sophomore forward from Chattanooga, showed her potential by assisting the Mocs in securing the second seed in the Southern Conference Tournament. Over the last two regular season games, Elisaldez averaged 18.5 points, 8.5 assists, and 4.5 rebounds. Her noteworthy performance included an 18-point, 8-assist game, despite a close overtime loss to Furman.
